Is it normal for my brand new alternator to be making a really loud noise?

Question

Whenever I am stopped at light, or simply put the car in park there seems to be a really loud "engine" type noise coming from my new alternator. It's been about a week since it was put in. Is this normal, or should I try to return it and put another one in?

Answer 1

Sounds like a bad bearing or a bearing going bad. Check with a stethescope or long handled screwdriver to make sure the noise is coming from your alternator and not another component nearby. Idler pulleys and belt tensioners can make some loud squeaky noises and you might think it is from your alternator. make sure your belt tensioner (if you have a serpentine belt) is taking up slack properly. If you have V-belts, you might have the alternator belt too tight. When you installed that new alternator, did you ensure it is aligned properly on its mountings. If the alternator is sitting a little ********, you could be putting a bind on the alternator bearing. If all else is normal, you have an alternator bearing getting ready to fail on you. Good luck and get someone to look at the situation with you (second opinion and all that).

Answer 2

No, alternators should not make any noise except for the belts. Check to make sure that the belts are fitted correctly. If they are fine, I'd return the alternator and replace it.

Answer 3

'engine' noise is not connecting in my brain for some reason ... now if it was a scream type noise i would suggest that the belt isnt tight enough... pull up to a full service gas station (if you can find one) or take it to the parts store where you bought it and ask someone inside to listen to it...

Answer 4

Uhhh......Drive back to where you bought it, and ask them to come outside and look for themselves.
It may be something easy, or a problem with the Alt.

Answer 5

if screeching noise. the belt is not tight enough.

Answer 6

No, are you sure it wasn't rebuilt and the bearings aren't any good? Try another one.

Answer 7

return it